The Nanaimo Clippers didn’t win a championship, but they still achieved their primary goal this season: developing players for their futures in hockey, education and life.
The Clippers, the week after they were eliminated from the B.C. Hockey League playoffs, held their team awards ceremony with family and fans at Wolf Brewing Company on April 17.
Graduating players were given their jerseys as keepsakes, and a handful of awards were presented.
This year’s Most Valuable Player was team captain Brett Merner, who was also recognized as Most Valuable Defenceman. Leading Scorer and Most Valuable Forward were both won by Mike Murtagh, and this season’s Rookie of the Year was Chase Hull. The other major award, the Lisa McPherson Memorial Award for heart and courage, was presented to Noah Alvarez.
Also, Joel Plante won Most Exciting Player, Connor DeTurris won Most Inspirational Player, Matt Lahey won Most Improved Player, Luke Buss was Unsung Hero and Samuel Boisvert took home the Coaches’ Award. As well, Emmett McHardy was honoured as Best Two-Way Player.
Also last week, the BCHL announced its 2023-24 all-stars and Merner was selected a first-team all-star and Murtagh a second-team all-star.